The government claims to be simplifying the welfare system. In reality, its “reforms” have brought chaos, confusion and cuts. Some people have been left destitute; others are struggling to meet their basic needs. Others are fighting back – challenging individual decisions and campaigning against the injustice embodied in the welfare changes and the chaos and incompetence that has characterised their introduction.

Cuts to housing benefits are increasing the risk of homelessness and forcing people into rent arrears. As well as the notorious bedroom tax, changes to housing benefit for under-35s mean they can only claim for the cost of renting a room in a shared house.

People with disabilities are disproportionately affected by the changes in the welfare system. And they are often dealt a double blow when cuts to their disability benefits tip them into the maze of work and unemployment benefits.

Job Seeker’s Allowance is dependent on claimants fulfilling a whole range of requirements, some of them difficult, if not impossible to fulfil, as well as unjust and of no use in helping people find work. These schemes are outlined here, along with campaigns to challenge them.